Medications for Autism

The following information is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included. Ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

There are no specific treatments for autism. However, several kinds of medication may help to treat symptoms. For example, many individuals with autism have behaviors associated with anxiety, irritability, inattention, obsessive-compulsive habits, or aggression. Some of these medications are used as part of a more widespread treatment program to help with these types of behaviors.

Prescription Medications

Antidepressants

Fluoxetine

Fluvoxamine

Sertraline

Clomipramine

Some drugs in this class appear to help people with autism by altering brain chemistry. These drugs increase the amount of brain chemicals like serotonin and noradrenaline. These chemicals are believed to have stimulant effects. They may help treat repetitive and other maladaptive behaviors, irritability, depressive symptoms, tantrums, anxiety, aggression, difficulty with transitions, and aspects of social interaction and language.

Clomipramine is a medication used to treat
obsessive-compulsive disorder
(OCD), which shares features with autism. The specific chemical abnormalities related to autism have not been identified yet. The use of these drugs is guided by experience and trial and error.

Medications are given 1-2 times per day in doses similar to those used to treat
depression
. Side effects such as dry mouth, lightheadedness, and sedation are the most common. There are many other side effects. Some are serious, such as disturbances of heart rhythm. Talk to your child's doctor about the specific side effects of these drugs.

Analeptics (Stimulants)

Methylphenidate

This medication is most commonly used for
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD). It also may help certain forms of autism. Methylphenidate is not recommended for children under age six.
It might help treat hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.

Possible side effects include:

Addiction

Seizures

Worsening mental disturbances

Antipsychotic Drugs

Chlorpromazine

Thioridazine

Haloperidol

Risperidone

Aripiprazole

These drugs are commonly used to treat
schizophrenia
. But, they are also used for autism. These drugs occasionally have severe side effects. They should be used with great caution.
Only risperidone and aripiprazole are FDA-approved to treat autism-related symptoms. Risperidone might help in the treatment of aggressive behavior, deliberate self-injury, and tantrums.

Possible side effects include:

Uncontrolled movements

High fever

Drowsiness

Lightheadedness

Dry mouth

Weight gain

Liver toxicity

Other Medications

Other medications may be chosen based on other symptoms. Some people with autism may suffer from seizures. In this case, your doctor may prescribe anticonvulsant medications.

Clonidine may also help reduce hyperarousal symptoms including hyperactivity, irritability and outbursts, impulsivity, and repetitive behaviors.

Note:

In some cases, these medications may cause unexpected reactions in children with autism. If your child is taking any of these medications, pay close attention to changes in behavior. Stay in close contact with your child's doctor.

Special Considerations

Give the medication as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Do not stop giving them without talking to the doctor.

Do not share them.

Make sure that the measuring device (eg, measuring spoon or cup) has units that match the dose your child is supposed to take. For instance, if you are supposed to give 30 milliliters (ml) of medication, make sure your measuring cup has milliliter units on it.

Ask what results and side effects to expect. Report them to the doctor.

Some drugs can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist if your child is taking more than one drug. This includes over-the-counter medication and herb or dietary supplements.

Plan ahead for refills so you do not run out.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.